Crave

Samantha Ferro
  • 5.0 (8)
  • Places & Travel
  • Updated Weekly

Crave: Where Italy Meets America

  1. 16h ago ·  Video

    CRAVE Italy S8 Ep. 10 | 800 Years of Saint Francis: Assisi Comes to San Francisco

    800 years. Two cities. One extraordinary connection. In this special episode of CRAVE Italy, journalist and host Samantha Ferro brings together an extraordinary conversation commemorating the 800th anniversary of the passing of Saint Francis of Assisi and celebrating the unique connection between Assisi and San Francisco—the city that carries his name. Beginning October 14, 2026, San Francisco will welcome an extraordinary six-week exhibition honoring this historic anniversary. Sacred relics and treasures of Saint Francis and Saint Clare—never before brought outside Assisi—will journey to San Francisco, creating a remarkable encounter between two cities connected across centuries. Joining Samantha are Massimo Carnelos, Consul General of Italy in San Francisco; Angela Alioto, International Director of the Knights of Saint Francis; and Iacopo Gori of Corriere della Sera. Together, they explore the story behind this exceptional celebration, the enduring relationship between Italy and San Francisco, and the legacy of Saint Francis eight centuries after his passing. The episode was developed around these voices and this connection between Saint Francis, Italy, and San Francisco. The celebration will also welcome an official delegation from Assisi, including the Mayor of Assisi and Franciscan representatives, alongside the Consul General of Italy, the Mayor of San Francisco, and religious, civic, and community leaders. At the heart of the conversation is a question that reaches far beyond an anniversary: Why does Saint Francis still matter today? His message of peace, compassion, care for those in need, respect for creation, and dialogue among people continues to resonate across cultures, generations, and borders. These are also among the central themes explored in this special CRAVE Italy conversation. This is more than an anniversary. It is a legacy traveling across eight centuries—and across the world. From Assisi to San Francisco, CRAVE Italy takes you inside this extraordinary moment. Watch. Listen. Share the story. Host & Journalist Samantha Ferro Featuring Massimo Carnelos — Consul General of Italy in San Francisco Angela Alioto — International Director, Knights of Saint Francis Iacopo Gori — Corriere della Sera Presented with the support of Biordi Art Imports https://biordi.com/ In Partnership With Consulate General of Italy in San Francisco Italian Cultural Institute of San Francisco 👗 Host Wardrobe Samantha Ferro wearing Alice Becker Inc. https://alicebeckerinc.com/ 🎧 Listen & Watch CRAVE Italy Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, YouTube, and all major podcast platforms. 🌐 Visit CRAVE Italy www.crave-podcast.com Follow CRAVE Italy Instagram: @crave.show TikTok: @craveitaly LinkedIn: CRAVE Italy

  2. Aug 26 ·  Video

    CRAVE Italy S8 Ep.9 | The REAL Fettuccine Alfredo: Inside the Restaurant Where It Was Born

    The world knows Fettuccine Alfredo. There are countless recipes, videos, and stories about this famous dish — but how often do you get to go inside the restaurant where it was born, hear the story from the owner, and watch the authentic Fettuccine Alfredo prepared at the source? In this very special episode, CRAVE Italy goes directly to where it all began. From the heart of Rome, Samantha Ferro introduces CRAVE Italy Rome Correspondent Simone Mazzetto, who takes us inside the legendary Alfredo alla Scrofa, the historic birthplace of the world-famous Fettuccine Alfredo. Carlo Paragona, Director of Alfredo alla Scrofa, welcomes us and takes us through this remarkable restaurant, its history, and traditions. Then Mario Mozzetti, owner of Alfredo alla Scrofa, takes us to the heart of the story — revealing how Fettuccine Alfredo began with a simple act of love, and how that deeply personal story would eventually become a worldwide culinary phenomenon. And then comes the moment that makes this CRAVE Italy experience so special: Mario shows us how the authentic Fettuccine Alfredo is actually made. This isn't a recreation in another kitchen or simply another recipe found online. We're at the source — experiencing the story and watching the tradition come to life through the owner himself. But this is about much more than pasta. At its heart, this is a love story — one that began with a simple act of love and became a culinary legend known worldwide. From Rome to Hollywood, Italy to America, Fettuccine Alfredo crossed the Atlantic and took on a life of its own. What many Americans know today as Fettuccine Alfredo may be very different from the Roman original — but behind it is a remarkable story of love, tradition, and an enduring cultural connection between two countries. Love. Food. Family. History. Italy and America. There are many ways to tell the story of Fettuccine Alfredo. CRAVE Italy takes you to where the story actually began. The real place. The real story. The real Fettuccine Alfredo. Special Thanks A very special thank you to Ristorante Alfredo alla Scrofa for opening its doors to CRAVE Italy and making this extraordinary experience possible. Our sincere gratitude to Mario Mozzetti, owner of Alfredo alla Scrofa, for welcoming us, sharing the remarkable story behind Fettuccine Alfredo, and giving our audience the special opportunity to see its authentic preparation at its historic home. Special thanks to Carlo Paragona, Director of Alfredo alla Scrofa, for welcoming us and taking CRAVE Italy through this legendary restaurant, and for his collaboration and hospitality in helping us bring this story to life. And a special thank you to Simone Mazzetto for taking us into the heart of Rome and helping us discover the people, places, and stories that connect Italy with the world. All roads lead to Rome. This one leads to Alfredo alla Scrofa.

  3. Jul 23 ·  Video

    CRAVE Italy S8 Ep. 8 | The Aldon Smith Special: A Story of Friendship, Legacy & Italian Hospitality

    In this moving episode of CRAVE Italy, host and journalist Samantha Ferro welcomes Maurizio Florese, owner of Mona Lisa Restaurant, Steps of Rome, and Clam House in San Francisco, for an intimate conversation about family, tradition, friendship, and the enduring spirit of Italian hospitality. Originally from Calabria, Maurizio has spent decades sharing the flavors and values of Italy, welcoming generations of guests with warmth, authenticity, and a passion for making everyone feel at home. At the heart of this episode is the memory of his dear friend, former San Francisco 49ers linebacker Aldon Smith. To honor Aldon's legacy and his love of Italian cuisine, Maurizio created The Aldon Smith Special, a signature pasta dish that is far more than a tribute. A portion of the proceeds supports youth sports, ensuring that Aldon's legacy continues to inspire future generations through opportunity, community, and hope. More than a conversation about food, this episode is a celebration of friendship, family, resilience, and the extraordinary connections created around the table. It is a reminder that the people we love continue to shape our lives and that the traditions we share can become lasting legacies.   Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, YouTube, and all major podcast platforms.   Visit CRAVE Italy www.crave-podcast.com Special Thanks   De Cecco Pasta for their generous support of CRAVE Italy. Maurizio Florese for sharing his story and for preserving the traditions of authentic Italian hospitality. In Partnership With Consulate General of Italy in San Francisco Italian Cultural Institute of San Francisco Samantha's Wardrobe Alice Becker Inc. https://www.alicebeckerinc.com Follow CRAVE Italy Instagram: @crave.show TikTok: @craveitaly LinkedIn: CRAVE Italy

    CRAVE Italy S8 Ep. 8 | The Aldon Smith Special: A Story of Friendship, Legacy & Italian Hospitality

  4. Jul 9 ·  Video

    Crave Italy S8 E7 | Inside the Italfoods Specialty Food Show

    In this episode of Crave Italy, host and journalist Samantha Ferro takes you inside the 2026 Italfoods Specialty Food Show at the historic Fort Mason Festival Pavilion in San Francisco. Organized by Italfoods, this premier event brings together Italian producers, importers, distributors, retailers, chefs, and food industry professionals to celebrate the excellence, authenticity, and innovation of Made in Italy, while strengthening the connection between Italy and the United States. Throughout the episode, Samantha meets a diverse group of exhibitors and producers who share the stories behind their companies, products, and passion for authentic Italian food. From family-owned businesses preserving generations of tradition to innovative brands helping shape the future of the industry, these conversations highlight the craftsmanship, quality, and heritage that define Italian excellence. The episode also features insights from Richard J. Armanino, Director of Sales & Purchasing at Italfoods, on the vision behind the Specialty Food Show and its role in connecting Italian producers with the U.S. market. Whether you're passionate about Italian food, entrepreneurship, or discovering the people behind authentic Made in Italy products, this episode offers an exclusive look inside one of Northern California's premier Italian food industry events. Crave Italy — Where Italy Meets America.  Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Amazon Music, YouTube, and all major podcast platforms.  www.craveshow.com  Special Thanks Our sincere thanks to Richard J. Armanino and the Italfoods team for their warm hospitality and for making our visit to the 2026 Italfoods Specialty Food Show possible. We also extend our gratitude to all the exhibitors, producers, distributors, chefs, and guests who generously shared their stories, expertise, and passion throughout the event.  Italfoods https://www.italfoodsinc.com  Samantha's Wardrobe by Alice Becker Inc. https://www.alicebeckerinc.com  Follow Crave Italy Instagram: @crave.show TikTok: @craveitaly LinkedIn: CRAVE Italy

    Crave Italy S8 E7 | Inside the Italfoods Specialty Food Show

  5. Jun 18 ·  Video

    Crave Italy S8 E6 | Carlo Petrini's Legacy: A Conversation with Lorenzo Scarpone

    In this special episode of Crave Italy, journalist and host Samantha welcomes Lorenzo Scarpone, longtime friend, mentee, and collaborator of Carlo Petrini, the visionary founder of the Slow Food Movement and one of the world's most influential advocates for sustainable agriculture, food culture, and environmental stewardship. Through personal reflections and stories spanning decades, Lorenzo shares how Carlo Petrini shaped his life and inspired his commitment to supporting farmers, preserving food traditions, and fostering a deeper connection between food, culture, and community. Their friendship offers a rare and intimate perspective on Carlo's enduring legacy and the global movement he created. Together, Samantha and Lorenzo explore the principles that defined Carlo's mission: protecting local food cultures, supporting farmers and fishermen, educating future generations, preserving biodiversity, and recognizing food as a powerful force for connection and social change. The conversation also examines Carlo's relationships with global leaders, including King Charles III and Pope Francis, his dedication to the University of Gastronomic Sciences (UNISG), and his belief that a more sustainable future begins with education, stewardship, and respect for those who cultivate the land. This episode serves as both a tribute and a celebration of a remarkable individual whose vision continues to influence conversations about food, sustainability, and community around the world. Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, and other major podcast platforms.   www.craveshow.com Special thanks to Mona Lisa Mare e Monti for their support. https://monalisasf.com Samantha's wardrobe by Alice Becker Inc. https://www.alicebeckerinc.com Institutional Partners Consulate General of Italy in San Francisco https://conssanfrancisco.esteri.it Italian Cultural Institute of San Francisco https://iicsanfrancisco.esteri.it Follow CRAVE Italy Instagram: @crave.show TikTok: @craveitaly LinkedIn: CRAVE Italy

    Crave Italy S8 E6 | Carlo Petrini's Legacy: A Conversation with Lorenzo Scarpone

  6. Jun 10 ·  Video

    CRAVE Italy S8 E5 | AI, Journalism & Communication: The Future of Information | Yumi Wilson

    Artificial Intelligence is changing the way we work, learn, communicate, and access information. As AI becomes part of everyday life, understanding how to use it effectively is becoming an essential skill for everyone. In this episode of CRAVE Italy, Samantha Ferro sits down with Yumi Wilson, a journalist, professor at San Francisco State University, and AI literacy educator, to explore the intersection of artificial intelligence, journalism, and communication. Together, they discuss: • What artificial intelligence is in simple terms • How beginners can start using AI tools with confidence • Why AI literacy is becoming an essential skill for everyone • How AI is transforming journalism, media, and communication • How information is created, shared, and interpreted in the AI era • How to evaluate the trustworthiness and credibility of digital content • The opportunities and challenges AI brings to society • The human qualities that remain essential in a technology-driven world Whether you are new to AI or simply want to understand how it is shaping the future of information, this conversation offers practical insights into one of the most important topics of our time.  Watch and subscribe to CRAVE Italy for more conversations that inform, inspire, and connect communities.   Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, and all major podcast platforms.   Website: www.craveshow.com Episode Sponsor Alice Becker Inc. https://www.alicebeckerinc.com Institutional Partners Consulate General of Italy in San Francisco Italian Cultural Institute of San Francisco   Stay Connected Instagram: @crave.show  TikTok: @craveitaly LinkedIn: CRAVE Italy https://www.linkedin.com/company/crave-italy/ CRAVE Italy — Where Conversations Shape the Future.

    CRAVE Italy S8 E5 | AI, Journalism & Communication: The Future of Information | Yumi Wilson

  7. May 26 ·  Video

    CRAVE Italy S8 E4 | Elisa Sednaoui on Creativity, Identity & Transforming Education

    In this inspiring episode of Crave Italy, Samantha Ferro sits down with Elisa Sednaoui — Italian, Egyptian, and French model, actress, director, and founder of Funtasia, a global initiative focused on creativity and social-emotional learning. Elisa shares her journey growing up between Italy and Egypt, her experiences in fashion and film, and the personal experiences that inspired her mission to transform education through creativity, emotional intelligence, and human connection. Together, they explore identity, belonging, women's empowerment, conscious leadership, and the power of art and innovation in shaping future generations. A thoughtful and inspiring conversation celebrating culture, creativity, and purpose. Learn more about Funtasia: https://www.funtasiaeducation.org/ Special thanks to Evaro Italia for their collaboration and support: https://www.evaro.it/ In partnership with: Consulate General of Italy in San Francisco https://conssanfrancisco.esteri.it/ The Italian Cultural Institute of San Francisco https://iicsanfrancisco.esteri.it/ Host & Journalist: Samantha Ferro Wardrobe by Alice Becker Inc. https://alicebeckerinc.com/ Follow Crave Italy: Instagram: @craveitalyshow Follow Elisa Sednaoui & Funtasia: @elisasednaoui @funtasiaeducation www.craveshow.com

    CRAVE Italy S8 E4 | Elisa Sednaoui on Creativity, Identity & Transforming Education

  8. May 5 ·  Video

    CRAVE Italy S8 Episode 3 | Sergio Strozzi on Innovation, INNOVIT & Italy's Global Future

    In this episode of CRAVE Italy, Host and Journalist Samantha Ferro interviews Sergio Strozzi, former Consul General of Italy in San Francisco and currently Head of Innovation, Technology, and Startups at the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The conversation explores the evolving intersection of diplomacy and innovation, and the growing role of "tech diplomacy" in shaping not only economic growth, but also a more inclusive and human-centered global society. Sergio reflects on his experience in the Bay Area and his role in strengthening the relationship between Italy and the United States, while contributing to a new narrative of Italy as a country of technology, research, and forward-looking innovation. The episode also examines the vision and impact of INNOVIT, the Italian Innovation and Culture Hub in San Francisco, and its expansion into a global network, with new initiatives in New York and India—marking a significant step in advancing Italy's international innovation ecosystem. Topics include: • The intersection of diplomacy and innovation • The vision, development, and global expansion of INNOVIT • Italy's role in the global innovation landscape • Balancing cultural heritage with technological progress • Strengthening international collaboration in startups and research • Reflections on San Francisco, Rome, and the global innovation environment • The importance of people, ideas, and human values in innovation www.craveshow.com Episode Sponsor: Poesia Italian Restaurant, San Francisco https://www.poesiacafesf.com/ In partnership with: Consulate General of Italy in San Francisco Italian Cultural Institute of San Francisco Host and Journalist: Samantha Ferro (wardrobe by Alice Becker)

    CRAVE Italy S8 Episode 3 | Sergio Strozzi on Innovation, INNOVIT & Italy's Global Future
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
8 Ratings

About

Crave: Where Italy Meets America

Information

  • Creator
    Samantha Ferro
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    60
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2024-2025
  • Show Website
    Crave